Fall is here, and with that comes crisp air and colorful views. In Massachusetts, leaves are predicted to start changing color mid-September and will reach peak foliage season in mid-October. Fall in our area is breathtaking, and if you're looking to experience this natural beauty up close, look no further than these towns just west of Boston. Here's a guide to some of the best spots for fall foliage in Waltham, Belmont, Watertown, Weston, Newton, and Brookline:
Waltham
- Beaver Brook Reservation: This 750-acre conservation area offers a variety of hiking trails that wind through forests and along streams. The fall foliage here is particularly stunning, with a mix of maples, oaks, and aspens.
- Location: Multiple parking lots throughout the reservation
- Parking: Free
- Cost: Free
- Charles River Path: Take a leisurely stroll along the Charles River Path and enjoy the panoramic views of the foliage-covered hills.
- Location: Various parking lots along the path, from Prospect Street in Waltham to Charles River Dam Road Bridge in Boston
- Parking: Free, but can fill up quickly on weekends
- Cost: Free
- Prospect Hill Park: This historic park offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including the Boston skyline. The fall foliage in the park is particularly beautiful, with a mix of maples and oaks.
- Location: 314 Totten Pond Road, Waltham, MA
- Parking: Free parking lot at the top of the hill
- Cost: Free
Belmont
- Waverly Oaks: This historic estate is home to a beautiful arboretum with a collection of native and exotic trees. The fall foliage here is a sight to behold, with a variety of colors and textures.
- Location: 539 Waverley Oaks Road, Belmont, MA
- Parking: Free parking lot on Waverley Oaks Road
- Cost: Free
- Clay Pond: This scenic pond is surrounded by beautiful fall foliage, making it a great place for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
- Location: Clay Pond Recreation Area, Belmont, MA (exact address unavailable)
- Parking: Free parking lot at the recreation area
- Cost: Free
Watertown
- Arsenal Park: This urban park offers a peaceful escape from the city, with a variety of walking trails and a pond. The fall foliage in the park is particularly beautiful, with a mix of maples and oaks.
- Location: 485 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA
- Parking: Free parking lot on Arsenal Street
- Cost: Free
- Charles River Reservation: This large conservation area offers a variety of hiking trails and scenic views of the Charles River. The fall foliage here is particularly stunning, with a mix of maples, oaks, and aspens.
- Location: Multiple parking lots throughout the reservation, including 1175A Soldiers Field Road, Boston, MA
- Parking: Free, but can fill up quickly on weekends
- Cost: Free
Weston
- Great Brook Farm State Park: This 1,000-acre park offers a variety of hiking trails that wind through forests and along streams. The fall foliage here is stunning, with a variety of colors and textures.
- Location: 130 Great Brook Road, Weston, MA
- Parking: $5 per vehicle
- Cost: $5 per vehicle
- Lincoln Woods: This 1,100-acre conservation area offers a variety of hiking trails that wind through forests and along streams. The fall foliage here is particularly stunning, with a mix of maples, oaks, and aspens.
- Location: Multiple parking lots throughout the reservation
- Parking: Free
- Cost: Free
Newton
- Chestnut Hill Reservoir: This scenic reservoir offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills, which are ablaze with color in the fall. There are several walking trails around the reservoir.
- Location: 355 Chestnut Hill Avenue, Brighton, MA (near the border with Newton)
- Parking: Free parking lots around the reservoir
- Cost: Free
- Waban Park: This historic park offers a variety of recreational activities, including walking, jogging, and picnicking. The fall foliage in the park is particularly beautiful, with a mix of maples and oaks.
- Location: Waban Street, Newton, MA (exact address unavailable)
- Parking: Free parking lot on Waban Street
- Cost: Free
Brookline
- Jamaica Pond: This popular park offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and walking. The fall foliage around the pond is particularly beautiful, with a mix of maples and oaks.
- Location: Between The Jamaicaway and Perkins Street, Boston, MA
- Parking: Free parking lots around the pond
- Cost: Free
- Frederick Law Olmsted Park: This historic park is known for its beautiful landscaping and walking trails. The fall foliage here is particularly stunning, with a mix of maples, oaks, and aspens.
- Location: 99 Warren Street, Brookline, MA
- Parking: Free parking lots throughout the park
- Cost: Free
Tips for Enjoying Fall Foliage:
- Check the foliage reports: Keep an eye on local news and weather reports for updates on the best time to see the foliage.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Many of these locations involve walking on trails or paths.
- Bring a camera: Capture the stunning fall colors and create lasting memories.
- Pack a picnic: Enjoy a meal in the beautiful fall setting.
Be sure to bookmark this comprehensive list of places to visit with your family during this colorful season. Did we miss any good spots around town? Send us an email at mariabarrette@macaronikid.com and we'll keep add your suggestion(s). Otherwise, here's your sign to throw on some plaid, grab a pumpkin coffee, and hit the trails! See you out there!
